Batá drumming is considered to be one of the great cultural treasures of the African Diaspora. The cornerstone of Cuban percussive arts, batá drumming is over 500 years old, and was brought to the island by Yoruba bondsmen during the Atlantic Slave trade. The drums accompany songs in praise of the Orisha, the deities and nature spirits of the Afrocuban religion Santeria. This course will hands-on and interactive, cover some of the more popular rhythms and teach a spread of songs for several important Orishas. Beginners welcome.

Crispin Robinson has been playing, studying and teaching batá drumming for 20 years. He is an initiated drummer and plays in religious ceremonies in Cuba.